By Bill Dan Arnold Borodi
The proposed budget for the 28th Guild Government at Uganda Christian University (UCU), estimated at Shs249,760,000, outlines what could be the Guild’s highest financial plan in recent years, up from Shs210,972,000 in the previous financial year. The allocations span leadership facilitation, student welfare programmes, digital innovation and campus development initiatives.
Guild President Elomaboni Abraham, however, cautioned against treating the document as final, saying it has not yet been approved.
“The budget is not yet approved. It is inappropriate to discuss that document because it’s still a false document until approved,” he said.
The proposed figures show a significant concentration of funds under the Ministry of Finance and Planning, which is allocated Shs105,526,000, just over 42 percent of the total budget. This however marks a decrease from last year’s Shs119,596,000.
The Ministry of ICT, Research and Innovation is allocated Shs12,784,000. The budget introduces funding for a Guild Marketplace application and a hostel booking system, each allocated Shs1,000,000. This represents a departure from previous budgets that largely focused on DSTV subscriptions across student halls such as Sabiti, Nsibambi, PDR, and Radamma.
One of the most significant increases is seen in the Office of the Guild Speaker, which is allocated Shs24,230,000, up from Shs5,280,000 last year. A large portion of this, Shs20 million, is earmarked for the Guild Trip.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Campus Projects is allocated Shs5 million, including Shs3 million for Guild Park renovation and funding for the purchase of a 100-seater tent. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Sports receives Shs6,290,000 to facilitate inter-faculty competitions, including the purchase of trophies and medals, as well as athlete welfare.
The Office of International Students is allocated Shs4 million to support International Students’ Week and an International Students’ Trip.
